Gina Galligan's biggest disappointment in swimming is easily defined. She was controversially left out of the Ireland team for the Barcelona Olympics and for a time struggled to maintain her previous high level of commitment to the sport. Now she is set to make a welcome return to the National Open Championships which get under way at the Grove Baths in Belfast today. Galligan (22) last swam in the championships in 1996. Since then she has been a valued member of the University of Carolina team.

Her involvement in this week's championships will be confined to the relays with Trojan. "If I am swimming fast enough when I return to college and feel there is room for improvement, I will continue on after next March and make my re-introduction to Irish swimming on an individual basis in the spring championships. I am only helping out my team in the relays this time," said Galligan.

The inclusion of top Icelandic competitors gives the Belfast tests added interest with Omar Fridriksson, Halldor Halldorsson and Evdis Konradsdottor poised to trouble the home competitors. The latter, particularly, could prove a strong challenger for Chantal Gibney in the freestyle events.

Sally O'Herlihy, the reigning 100 metres butterfly champion, will have to work hard this time to fend off challenges by Lee Kelleher and Lorna Cardwell of Bangor and Nick O'Hare, the fastest competitor in the championships, will come under certain pressure from the in-form O'Connors, Adrian and Hugh, of New Ross, in the freestyle sprints.

At the other end of the distance scale, Steve Saunders of Terenure College will attempt to retain his 1,500 metres title this afternoon. The biggest challenge for the Terenure man is going to be provided by Neil Cameron of Leander.

The championships start at 4.0 this afternoon. On subsequent days, including the closing sessions on Saturday, the schedule will be heats at 10.00 a.m. and finals at 5.00 p.m.

Meanwhile, Niamh Cawley of Claremorris left no doubt about her current form during the British ASA championships in Sheffield earlier this month with a hat-trick of Irish backstroke records at 50 (31.34), 100 (1:06.52) and 200 metres (2:21.60). She is an essential member of the Irish team en route to Antwerp for the Junior European Championships. All members of the Euro team will compete, as well as the entire Team 2000.